Chapter 1

Introduction

Overview

The CN8600 is a cost-efficient over-IP device that provides secure KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) server management over an IP network. It allows operators to monitor and access their computers at BIOS-level from remote locations using a web GUI, a browser-based Windows or Java client, or a Windows or Java based application program. It also allows the IP address to be easily configured from the local console.

The CN8600 supports redundant Network Internet Card (NIC) to ensure connectivity. It connects to the Internet using industry standard Cat 5e/6 cables, then uses a custom KVM cable to connect to a local KVM switch or server. It is compatible with ATEN DVI KVM switches and LCD consoles, such as the CS1768 and CL6700.

Because the CN8600 uses TCP/IP for its communications protocol, the server or KVM switch to which it is connected can be accessed from any computer on the Internet – whether that computer is located down the hall, down the street, or half-way around the world. Operators at remote locations connect to the CN8600 via its IP address. Once a connection has been established and authorization granted, the remote computer can exchange keyboard, video and mouse signals with the server (or servers on a KVM switch installation), as if an administrator were physically present and working on the equipment directly.

A mini USB port in the rear panel serves as a Virtual Media USB port, as well as a Laptop USB Console (LUC) port. No additional monitor, keyboard or mouse is required on the local site during routine maintenance – simply use a laptop that utilizes the LUC feature to access a computer on-site for easy management.

The CN8600’s Virtual Media function allows a user to perform diagnostic testing, file transfer, and OS/application patches from a remote console. There is no need to physically load a CD directly to the server to perform data-related tasks – conveniently and efficiently troubleshoot and resolve problems at the BIOS level from anywhere.

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